EMDR Therapy and Ketamine-Assisted EMDR Therapy™
What is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a research-based psychotherapy approach designed to help your brain process and heal from difficult experiences that may be contributing to anxiety, fear, depression, or other emotional distress.
EMDR works with your brain’s natural ability to heal by helping you reprocess those experiences so they feel less overwhelming and more manageable. As distressing memories are integrated in a healthier way, many people notice a reduction in emotional intensity, along with a greater sense of clarity, confidence, and inner stability.
Over time, EMDR can lead to lasting shifts in how you view yourself, your past, and your ability to move forward.
EMDR may be helpful for:
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety and fear-based patterns
Depression and low self-esteem
Stressful or overwhelming life experiences
Learn more about EMDR.
What is Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy™ (KA-EMDR)?
Sometimes traditional therapy and even EMDR alone may leave clients feeling stuck. They may have insight and understanding, but that does not necessarily help them to integrate their experiences. Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy™ (KA-EMDR), is an innovative and compassionate approach to healing that can be especially effective for individuals with trauma-related conditions who have found limited relief from traditional therapies and for those who are looking to do deeper work.
What is Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy™? KA-EMDR is a specialized treatment that brings together two powerful approaches to healing:
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) — a well-established, evidence-based therapy for processing traumatic memories
Low-dose sublingual ketamine — a prescribed medication that creates optimal mental conditions for deep therapeutic work
The protocol was developed in 2024 by Danielle Ciccone and Michele Topel, who co-founded the Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy Institute.
How Does It Work?
At the start of a session, the client self-administers a low dose of sublingual ketamine, which is prescribed and managed by a licensed medical provider. This low dose supports the therapeutic process by:
Increasing emotional openness and self compassion
Decreasing the fight-or-flight response
Enhancing neuroplasticity (the brain's ability to form new connections)
Importantly, clients remain fully alert and engaged throughout the session. These conditions help clients work through difficult material, explore new perspectives, and experience meaningful emotional shifts with EMDR therapy.
Important Notes About My Role
I do not prescribe or handle ketamine. Clients must work with a qualified medical provider who manages the prescription and provides oversight.
A medical and psychological screening is required to determine whether this treatment is safe and appropriate for you.